Restriction on working hours of labourers during summer; Odisha govt warns action against violators 

As a part of preventive measures against the heat wave across Odisha, the district administrations have been directed by the State government to strictly enforce the restrictions on the engagement of labourers and workmen during peak summer hours from 11 am to 3 pm.

The Special Relief Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary to the Odisha government, Satyabrata Sahu wrote a letter in this regard to the collectors of all the districts on Monday. 

This instruction of the government has come after the IMD, Bhubaneswar, forecast that hot and humid weather conditions and heat wave are likely to continue in many districts during the next five days

The letter stated, “As you are aware, detailed instructions have been communicated vide letter under reference on preparedness and precautionary measures required to be taken to combat heat wave situation across the State. The IMD, Bhubaneswar has forecast that hot and humid discomfort weather conditions and heat wave likely over districts of Odisha during the next 5 (five) days.” 

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With the rescheduling of the working time, it is strictly prohibited to engage labourers/workmen during the peak hours from 11 am to 3 pm during summer, the SRC said in the letter. 

The SRC warned that if the instructions are found violated, the concerned officer shall be personally held responsible and action shall be initiated as per relevant Sections of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.